The doom of humankind has at last been realized. Belkar's prison is broken and his army is on the move. The nations of Lamoria, unaware of the greater danger, look to repel the aggression of Ralmarstad. Mariyah and Lem, certain that only the magic of the Bards can save them, desperately search for that lost knowledge. They need friends and allies to complete their task, but those are in short supply. For while peril often brings out the best in us, it can also bring out the worst. In the end, it is not great power, terrible armies, or mighty warriors that will influence the course of fate, but two lovers and the unbreakable bond they share. All questions are answered. All mysteries revealed. And even Belkar will learn that fate, once tempted, cannot be denied.